Fitting the Pieces Together

Do any of you like to working on puzzles? The challenge with puzzles is finding the right piece for the right place.   A few weeks ago while staying in Bentol, Neda and I put together a jigsaw puzzle.  The puzzle came in a box that included 10 puzzles.  Thankfully, the puzzles were all in separate packages.  I brought the box of puzzles with me to Liberia, but never opened the box because I thought all the puzzle pieces were loose in the box.  I had made up my mind not to even open the box because the task of sorting and making sense of all those pieces would be too much for me.  You can imagine how delighted I was when we opened the box and saw all those individually packaged puzzles, ranging in size from 300 to 1000 pieces.

Just so we would not get discouraged and quit, we chose the 300 piece puzzle with which to begin.  We placed a small table near a window where we could have the best lighting (no electricity) and set to work.  First, we turned all the pieces over so the picture side was facing up.  Then we searched for the straight edge pieces that constitute the frame of the puzzle. 

The puzzle was of two tan puppies surrounded by various shades of trees and sky.  Framing the puzzle was the easiest part.  After all, there are only so many straight edge pieces!  Then, we began the task of looking at the rest of the pieces, trying to match color schemes and shapes of puzzle pieces. We wanted to be able to get all those pieces where they were meant to be so that the finished product would match the picture on the box. 

We didn't go about putting the puzzle together using the same thought process.  Neda’s MO (method of operation) was working along the puzzle frame, carefully filling in pieces.  My MO was to find a group of puzzle pieces that looked similar and start putting random pieces together until there was a big enough section to place inside the sparsely completed puzzle, locating the general area where that section might fit.  For me, the excitement was in connecting my section to what Neda was working on.  For Neda, it was watching the puzzle ‘take shape’ keeping connected to the frame.  Together, using our individual style, we eventually found where all the pieces fit.  We were so excited to see the picture coming together and even more excited when we finally had all the pieces in place.  It was a wonderful sense of accomplishment and we shared great moments of faith and friendship in the process.

In many ways, life is a lot like that puzzle.  We have all been created by a wonderful, awesome, loving God.  The Psalmist, David, expresses it so well in Psalm 139:14-16 (NIV)

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.

My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place. When I was woven together in the depths of the earth, your eyes saw my unformed body.

All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one of them came to be.”

And our life is so much more than just a scattering of random pieces (although it may seem that way sometimes). 

God’s Word has so much to teach us about how we should live and guides us in the choices we make.  God guides us, but also allows us freedom to choose when and how the ‘pieces’ are joined together.   The world constantly bombards us with puzzle pieces that aren't appropriate or godly – trying to persuade us that the pieces the world offers will fit perfectly into our life.  We often believe that lie and try so hard to make those distorted, damaging pieces fit only to end up disappointed, discouraged, and disillusioned. 

I am reminded of two stories in Scripture.  The first is found in the first three Gospels (Matt 19; Mark 10; Luke 18).  It’s the story of an obviously well-to-do young man who just about everything money could buy, but still had a longing in his life that was never fully satisfied even with all his wealth and education.  He came to Jesus wanting to see if there was a way to piece together what he already had and who he already was and fit into the promise of eternal life.  He was so close to putting in place that one missing piece.  But, when Jesus told him to sell what he had and give it to the poor, he couldn't let go.  You see, he had fit together the puzzle of his life to conform to the pattern of the world.  He wanted the assurance of eternal life but also wanted to hold on to all the pieces he’d so carefully placed in the puzzle of his life.  Jesus told him that the missing piece he was looking for would require some serious rearranging (and letting go) of puzzle pieces that had shaped his life thus far. It wasn't that there was anything wrong with any of the pieces.  It’s just that somewhere along the way, his possessions began to possess him.  Some of the pieces had taken on colors and shapes that wouldn't match up with what Christ had declared were necessary.  I wonder how the story ended for him.  Did he ever grow weary of having all the world could offer and still have an insatiable longing for ‘more’?  Did he finally get rid of the pieces that possessed him? 

I am also reminded of the story of a  Samaritan woman in John, chapter four.   Here was a woman whose life was a jumble of pieces from several puzzles.  She’d tried to satisfy the longings of her heart with relationships that were inappropriate and she ended up ostracized from society.  She chose to draw water from the well in the heat of the day, maybe to avoid criticism and stares from the women who gathered in the cool of the morning and evening to draw water.  Her life may have been a mess, but her heart was still searching for Someone to make the pieces of her life fit together.  In this story, Jesus offers her water that will satisfy her thirst, so she wouldn't have to keep drinking from a well that could never quench her thirst.  In other words, He was saying that if she would start drinking and keep drinking from the well of eternal life found in Christ,  her thirst for meaning and purpose in life and relationships would be forever satisfied.  She could finally let go of the puzzle pieces that didn't belong.  In Christ, the Messiah,  she would start to see the beautiful pattern God intended for her.  Where she could only see the scattered, broken pieces of her life, Christ could see a person of worth and value.

Some photos and notes of events from April/May (up to today)

Preaching at Sinkor Corps
at their Mother's Day Program
(May 18, 2014)

Bentol City Farmers Market
Local Produce bought and sold
Also, ladies starting a new venture of processing and packaging cassava leaf, fever leaf, cassava root, palm butter and other items to sell in a local supermarket.
Pray for this new endeavor as we all try to figure out processing, packaging, marketing and how to manage this small, but exciting business adventure for the Bentol Community.

Bentol Clinic and Hospital where we will conduct part of a clinical trial on an anti-malaria mosquito repellent and antiseptic wipe (called CleanOff) developed and initiated by Cross Atlantic and Veritas.

Mother's Day at St. Paul Bridge Corps

Preaching at St. Paul Bridge Corps
May 11, 2014

Prayer focus:

1.  Changes in Salvation Army leadership in Liberia:

       Col. Festus Oloruntoba will farewell on Sunday, May 25th and return to his home country of Nigeria to take up an appointment. 

       Colonels Gabriel and Monica Kathuri, from Kenya, will arrive on June 1st to assume leadership of the Liberia Command.

2.  All the many details involved in the anti-malaria endeavor.

     Pray especially for the children who suffer greatly from malaria

My contact information in the US:

Bill McKee 3967 Acorn Hill Dr, Canandaigua, NY 14424

Dave and Karen Bearchell, 1884 Wilson Wynd Way, Lawrenceville, GA 30043

Blessings to all.

Pamm

October 11, 2014

It has been a long time since I've blogged, but am going to try to get one done today.  I’m started several but never finished or posted. 

Me and Joe and the car I've been
blessed to be able to use.
Thanks STS!

As you probably all know, Liberia is in a fight for its life against the Ebola virus.  There are more reasons for the spread of the virus than you can imagine:  denial, people thinking they are invincible and Ebola won’t get to them, government chaos preventing supplies getting to critical areas, carelessness, traditions people refuse to change (such as the handling and burying of bodies of the deceased), dead bodies lying in communities for three or four days waiting for the Ebola team to pick them up ( and most times, they never come) so the community ends up with some sort of contact with the bodies and most end of dying as well, and on and on it goes.

The medical and hygiene supplies being sent in small increment by those making great sacrifices to help, sit at the airport or the port for weeks while paperwork is shuffled from government office to the other with rules changing daily.  There are no words to express the power of prayer in all these situations and to walk through it all in the power of God’s presence and peace! 

I recently posted several photos on Facebook of the events of the last few months. 

Here are a few of the special joys in ministry through which we have known God’s abundant provision and blessing:

1.      

Martha Freeman, RN and CSM at
Monrovia City Corps

Joanna Clinton, RN 

From Service to Servants and CM (Crazy Missionaries) I received thirty infrared thermometers and ten thousand medical gloves (12 cases with to distribute to clinics (mostly), hospitals and some organizations who have a steady stream of people coming and going and were in need of the thermometers and gloves. ( It is really important to know if anyone has a fever as this is the time when the disease is contagious.  Not everyone with a fever has Ebola, but they will also know if they need to seek treatment for malaria, typhoid or some other illness.  Wearing of medical gloves – especially for those in clinics and hospitals is so important as Ebola is transmitted through contact with bodily fluids. ) Many medical providers  - especially small clinics - are now willing to see patients with the help of these two items.  I just got some vinyl fabric to make aprons to give to some of the clinics as well – to help protect them.  Getting the thermometers released from DHL and the airport was a challenge and took more than a week to finally get the official papers of release.  Contacting the clinics, hospitals and organizations was such a humbling experience.  Nurses and Doctors cried and gave praise to God for the supplies.  One nurse is expecting a child and said that if it’s a girl, her name will be Pamela.  J  And it’s just because God grants me unique opportunities to be His conduit – His representative on behalf of His Kingdom and His faithful servants around the world.  It is such a blessing to be able to live under the shadow of the Almighty.

2.      

David & Goliath with
 Diana Davies Orphanage Kids

From Victory Praise Tabernacle Church – several bags of children’s clothing to share with the Diana Davies Orphanage.  Spending an afternoon with Diana, the children and staff was joy unspeakable.   We worked on the “David and Goliath” drama and had such fun with it.  (The one my brigades from Atlanta performed)

3.        I’ve received calls and letters from three orphanages and two organizations that work with the disabled who are desperately in need of clothing, so we are thanking God that even now generous hearts and hands are gathering clothing to send.  I often think of all the clothing we stockpile and then get rid of that is in far better condition than anything most people have in Liberia.  If only there was a bridge across the ocean…J

Sorting container items for recipents

Okay, the bulldozer was
on the container and I couldn't
resist climbing up on it

  Receiving, clearing and unloading a container from Service to Servants and seeing that the thirty four recipients of items on the container were contacted and received what was sent for them.  I got to meet the most wonderful people deeply involved in ministry that is changing lives in Liberia. 

5.     

Suzie Guenther Orphanage getting
Manna Rice from FMSC

  Helping distribute Manna Rice from Feed My Starving Children on behalf of REAP and Christine T. Norman.   Ministries receive the rice to feed children and use the feeding program as an opportunity to share Christ.  Many young people are coming to Christ and so many are growing in their knowledge of the Bible through this outreach.  As I read the reports that come in each month.   I have the privilege of hearing their stories and seeing beautiful pictures of happy children.  The process of preparing and serving the food is giving the older youth and adults a great opportunity to serve and grow in their own walk with Christ.  Unfortunately, we ran out of rice in August and are waiting for a new shipment from FMSC to arrive.  In the meantime, we trust God to continue to provide for every need.

6.      

Colonels Gabriel & Monica Kathuri
Capt. Bundu, Johnnason David
preparing supplies for distribution

The Salvation Army in Liberia has been busy gathering and distributing rice and other food items, buckets, chloride and soap for hand washing, and other supplies to Corps, hospitals, clinics and communities in the fight against Ebola.  The Monrovia City Corps recently had their own fundraiser to be able to purchase supplies and distribute them to Ebola hospital units.  Thank you, Salvation Army, for serving in this time of crisis.

7.     

  I spent a day with the people from Victory Praise Tabernacle visiting five villages and giving out Manna Rice, buckets with all the hand washing supplies, and clothing.  They visited several villages the week prior to distribution, determined which villages to pinpoint, met with local village chiefs the week prior to the distribution.  The teens from their church handled most of the distribution and we wonderful at interacting with the village people, taking time to talk with them, share the gospel and pray with people.   What a blessing to be able to go along with them!

8.   

CROPPS donation to ELWA hospital

    Visited ELWA hospital and Ebola unit with CROPPS to give them food and medical supplies that had been collected from seven or eight churches/organizations.  In this group, everyone talked about having some things to share but not enough to go out to do a distribution.  They decided to pull their resources and then go out to represent Christ as a united front.  The tendency is for churches and organizations to hold rather tightly to what their sponsors send and not share for fear of diminishing their support and sponsorship, so this will a big step forward for this group to loosen the reins a bit and step out in faith to share for the sake of the Gospel and the needs in Liberia.  God has blessed them all a thousand times over for their

                                                         faith venture. 

9.      

Hooking up new water pump

Connecting pump wires to the water tank

We are almost all finished with the water project at the CHQ compound.  In May the stand for the water tank that supplies water for six families caved in and cracked the water tank.  We wrote to THQ New York to see if they would help us with a project to build a new water tower, get a new water tank and pump.  We were able to complete the tower and tank in by the end of July and have now purchased an installed the new submersible pump with an automatic switch so the tank will fill when empty and switch off when the tank if full.  Thanks, THQ New York, your kindness is helping us with water for all these families (including me!).  Having a safe water supply is helping us keep safe while the nation fights the Ebola virus.

10.  

Disciples of the Cross - Liberia

Commissioning and ordination of the Disciples of the Cross session.  It was a blessing to lead the cadets in covenant week and attend the commissioning and ordination of fourteen cadets from Liberia and Sierra Leone.  Their commissioning weekend was very small and the Women’s Congress that was planned in conjunction with commissioning weekend has been postponed until March/April 2015.  Please continue to pray for these new Lieutenants as they face some unique challenges in getting to their appointments and ministering in the midst of a very frightening time in both their countries.   And we are praying that the International guests scheduled for the Women’s Congress will be able to join us the end of March 2015.

       Of course with commissioning comes changes of appointments. 

       Here's a picture of officers on their way to a new appointment. :)

Officers on their way to a new appointment

11.   The Command Band. 

I love the Command Band.  The guys (and now one young lady) are improving!  In June, we lost our bass player, Prince Appau, who returned to Ghana and our lead cornet player, David Oloruntoba, who returned to Nigeria.  The rest of the band had a lot of hard work ahead of them and they have risen to the occasion.  I was privileged to get Lavela to make them all a new uniform shirt and trousers thanks to the donations you send through my son, Bill.  The Education Department had some sashes they were not using, so we donned those as well for commissioning weekend.   Their instruments are in dreadful condition, but we manage with what we have and enjoy and appreciate the provisions of God. 

12.  

Teaching for Evangel Christian Seminary and serving as Academic Dean.  The last Saturday of each month I teach a small class of BA and MA Students (alternate months).   Because the university is small (around 75 students) and is registered under a church, we have been able to keep up with classes.  Most of their work is via independent study as well.  November 9^th we are having a small graduation as part of the Sunday morning service at Christ Mission Ablaze Evangelical Church – where we will honor seven graduates:  one MA, two BA, and four AA degrees.  Because the government has all the schools closed at least until the Ebola emergency is lifted (November 6^th), we have to be very careful to abide by the government mandate.  Several locations are doing a modified education by giving young people assignments to keep their minds working.  We are doing that at the CHQ compound as well. 

Bentol Community (where I serve as consultant to Mayor Christine T. Norman) is having it's own issues with Ebola.  I am been working with the Bentol City Mayor's office to get supplies to areas where there are Ebola outbreaks.  GSA (government) finally gave us some supplies for Low Cost Village where there has been several Ebola cases.  

Supplies delivered to Bentol from GSA

 

Thanks for your prayers and support in this part of God's Vineyard.  

This morning I was reading about Jesus and His disciples in a boat on the Sea of Galilee when a storm came up with such force that the disciples we sure they would all drown.  In the midst of the storm and their fear, they cried out to God, "Lord, Save us!  We're going to drown!"  Jesus asked them, "Where is your faith?" Then He calmed the storm.  

Ebola in Liberia has become for us like the storm at sea.  It has caught us off guard and we are crying out to God, "Lord, Save us!  This virus is filling people with fear and death is all around us!"  And Jesus asks us, "Where is your faith?"   And He is here to calm the storm in people's hearts.

I have to say that churches are full and in worship, there is a genuineness and refreshing that is powerful.  People are seeking to know Jesus and have the assurance of eternal life.  The fields are ripe for harvest.

Pamm McKee

Something's Missing

 Blog March 22, 2014

 Something’s Missing

Last night when the generator came on, I went to the light switch to turn on the lights.  The light in the living room and kitchen worked just fine.  I flipped the switch and, without any effort on my part, the room was filled with light.   But, when I tried the same thing with the bathroom light, there was a faint flicker of light and then, nothing but darkness.  My analysis of the situation was that the bulb was burned out.  So, I called on Emmanuel to see if he would get a ladder and change the bulb. That sounded like a simple, routine task.  Emmanuel, climbed the ladder, changed the bulb and said, “Flip the switch,” which I did.  But nothing happened. So, out came the new bulb and out came a flashlight to scrutinize the light socket.  What Emmanuel discovered was that a small piece in the socket had broken loose.  Until the socket could be repaired, no matter how good the bulb, that bulb would not give off light from that socket – even if the switch is ‘on’.  The generator was working just fine, putting out the right amount of current.  The electricity was working fine everywhere else in the apartment.  The power was there, but because of one tiny missing piece, a good bulb was rendered useless.  Of course, the bulb isn’t really useless.  Once the repair is made, the bulb secured back in the socket and the switch is turned on, the power will flow to bring light to the room.

There are times when a similar thing happens in my walk with Christ.  Power for living in Christ is readily available.  The flow of power into my life is always available, 24-7.  But here’s what can happen. 

I’m pretty sure I am ‘full of light’ and busy as a beaver on behalf of God and His Kingdom but not shining at all for Him because there’s something interfering with the connection – with the Source of Power.  It could be I’ve been too busy to pray and spend quiet time with God and His Word.   I don’t suppose that’s ever happened with you.  But, for me, it’s far too easy to get wrapped up with good works so much that I look like the energizer bunny – all charged up and spinning in a flurry of activity -  but accomplishing nothing of eternal consequences, because of one teensy (okay, not really teensy in the light of eternity) little old misdemeanor – bad attitude, careless in keeping the heart and mind cleansed and focused on Him rather than ‘works’ or situation, or trusting in my own abilities and earthly resources. You get the picture. Flip the switch.  Nothing happens.  But, I’m too preoccupied to even notice that I’ve short circuited my connection with my Heavenly Father.  I may think my light is shining, but how can anyone benefit from a non-lit bulb?  If there is a glow factor, it’s probably not a positive one.

What short circuits your Source of Power? 

Grumbling, gossip, or compromise of values.   It amounts to neglecting to keep the connection in good repair, whether intentionally or unintentionally.

Jesus says in John 15:4 “Remain in me (if it’s broken, fix it), and I will remain in you.”  In 1 John 1:7, we are reminded, “But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin.”

In John 8:12, Jesus said to the people, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

  

Some exciting events:

February 24-28         Pointmen Leadership Institute – in partnership with REAP, led a week long seminar for leaders in public and private sectors on principle and ethics- based leadership training.

             March 1^st        Second Annual REAP (Restoration of Educational Advancement Program) Awareness Day at the William R. Tolbert Center for Youth in Bentol City.  REAP has been operating in Liberia since 2004. So far, REAP’s presence and impact cut across the 15 counties of Liberia. With the vision to bring help, hope and opportunities to war affected Liberian youth and young adults, REAP seeks to explore, design and implement relevant programs and initiatives that will result in total recovery and restoration of lost values and dignity among Liberian youth and young adults.

 

March 15^th                 Bentol City Home Coming and Induction Ceremony for Mayor Christine Tolbert Norman.  The Salvation Army Band provided music for the induction ceremony which was attended by many Liberian Government officials and friends, including being honored with the presence of Her Excellency Madam President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

March 20 and 21      The first Liberian Circle Association conference, held at the Norman Guest Home Conference Center with 40 in attendance. The mission of Liberian Circle Association is to provide to Christian ministries serving the people of Liberia with opportunities for communication and networking that promotes vision, planning, and collaboration of resources, efforts, and services for relief, development, and advancement of sustainable improvements that bring growth in discipleship, reconciliation, justice, and righteousness in order to renew all relationships and culture to be under the authority of Jesus Christ

March 28                    Joined The Salvation Army medical team in Mt. Coffee.  We took along Laurie and Breanna Kelly (Feed Hungry Children foundation) and Pastor Don Coffeen (God’s Kids) and Franklin (a 16 yr old Liberian who grew up in Calvary Orphanage, graduated from high school and now taking a computer class and wants to be a doctor).  Pastor Don spent hours praying with people who had come to the clinic. Breanna gave out more than 80 packets of rice with nutrients especially designed for malnourished children.  Franklin helped with registration.  Laurie and Breanna worked with the medical team assembling packets of medicine for distribution to patients.  I took pictures, visited with people, and did story/singing/scripture memory time with the children.

March 30                    Preached at Christ Mission Ablaze Church for Youth Sunday. J

 Prayer Focus

Praise God for answered prayer in so many ways.

People are coming to Christ.  Churches/Corps are paying attention to discipling believers.

God has provided resources for nutritional rice packets to feed malnourished children in the interior, day care kids and orphanages.  

Thanks be to God for CM (crazy missionaries) who is helping to provide for some basis needs (stove, frig, a/c, drinking water, generator, etc)  I am blessed beyond measure.  To all of you who are part of my support, I thank you.

Pray for an end to the Ebola outbreak in some areas in Liberia and for protection from disease.

Pray for our daily ministry and interactions that God would grant wisdom in all matters to His honor and glory.

Blessings to all.

My son, Bill, is handling my finances.  If anyone would like to help in any way, please send to:

Crazy Missionaries

Dave Bearchell

1884 Wilson Wynd Way

Lawrenceville, GA 30043

or 

Bill McKee

3967 Acorn Hill Dr

Canandaigua, NY 14424

Pamm

Updates:  March 8, 2014
Hi everyone
Sorry this has taken so long to get posted. So many challenges with accessing the internet - along with changes in schedules have taken place in the past few weeks.

I am doing well and will post another blog (much sooner, I hope, giving you more updates about events taking place in an around my life here in Liberia.

One interesting thing lately has been the drives from Monrovia to Bentol City (about an hour drive).  The road between the two communities is being paved and the work is coming along well but, in the meantime, the dust is unbelievable.  The thought occurred to me on a ride back to Monrovia last week that is 'might' be compared to driving in a blizzard - only this was a dust blizzard and not a snow blizzard.  So, while you may be experiencing the cold and snow (and all that goes with it), we have the air filled with dust!  It was difficult to see the vehicle in front of you and the driver was using his windshield wipers to try to manage his way through the area.  A big blessing for us is that this particular vehicle has air conditioning so we can at least keep the windows up.  I've ridden in transport vehicles on this road (with no A/C) and people packed in like sardines in a tin can.  We cover ourselves with scarves/cloth/hankies/eyewear whatever might help protect us and keep the dust out of our eyes and lungs.  But, by the time we get to our destination and get out of the transport vehicle, we are all a site to behold!  Water trucks pass over the road at time during the day spraying water to try to minimize the dust.  But it's all in the name of progress!.

That makes me think about progress in the Christian life.  When we are involved in the work of God here on earth, we are sure to encounter blizzards - whether from the snow or sand or dust doesn't matter so much.  What matters is that we are spiritually prepared for the journey, taking the necessary precautions, and trusting God to use us and teach us in these situations.  And when that stage of the journey is ended, making time for spiritual cleanings and renewing, allowing His Spirit to wash us once again, His Word to refresh and teach us, fellowship with the community of faith, and go forth cleansed and refreshed for the next encounter.
Psalm 51:2 (NIV) Wash away all my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin.
Psalm 51:6-13 (NIV)
Surely you desire truth in the inner parts; you teach me wisdom in the inmost place.
Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.
Let me hear joy and gladness; let the bones you have crushed rejoice.
Hide your face from my sins and blot out all my iniquity.
Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me.
Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me.
 Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.
 Then I will teach transgressors your ways, and sinners will turn back to you.

It's not a matter of shutting ourselves away from the blizzards of life, but knowing that God is with us as we pass through them and is waiting to cleanse, renew, heal and refresh, teaching us important lessons on each leg of the journey and preparing us for the next step.
God bless you all.
Pamm

Blog  Feb 24 2014

Some recent events

Feb 23^rd – Baby Dedication – Destiny Paye

Destiny is the youngest daughter of Captains James and Viola Paye.  The Paye’s are the Corps Officers of the Sinkor Corps and James also is appointed to the Finance Department at CHQ.  Their son, Robert Dixon, was born while they were in training and their daughter, Theophelia was born in 2008 when they were Corps Officers in Cottontree.  I dedicated Theo in 2008. 

Feb 11^th

I attended the 16^th birthday celebration for Ruth Davis.  It was a beautiful celebration with more than 50 people in attendance.  Ruth is the eldest child of Barromi and Garmai Davis.  The celebration included singing her favorite hymn, young people performing dance and singing, scripture reading, an exhortation on the joy of growing up in Christ and a recommitment of Ruth’s life to God.  After the program, there was food, dancing and music.  

At one point I asked her father, Barromi, if he remembered his 16^th birthday and he did not.  When I was training principal here, there was a time that I had an Everybody’s birthday party for the cadets, instructors and board members.  One of the reasons for the party was that people were always reminding me when it was close to their birthday and they expected something from me.  I decided to have one party to cover it all!  I remember Barromi being at that party and his words at the end of party.  He said, “This is my first birthday party ever.”  He and Garmai are making special memories for his children.

Band Retreat

The Command was gracious enough to allow the band to have a retreat day on Feb 11, a national holiday in Liberia.  The band met at Chapel Corps for a time of devotion and prayer led by Lt. E. Snogba, Command Youth Secretary.  He talked about the importance of music as an expression of worship and encouraged the young people to be diligent in practice and in allowing music to minister to their own lives as well as reach into the lives of those who listen and join in worship through music.  The day ended with games to help them get to know each other and a time of fellowship and refreshments.  Several in the group are in the beginner band and doing extremely well.  It was a good experience of bringing the beginners and regular band members together.  

February 3, 2014

So many amazing things continue to happen here and I am continually blessed and empowered by God's Spirit and guiding presence and uplifted by beautiful, godly people.

Here is a thought that I call "Same but Different" - observing ministry in different cultures and countries.

I had a wonderful visit with the League of Mercy (Community Care) Secretary for the Liberia Command.   She has a heart longing to reach out to hurting and neglected people and those who just need a kind word of encouragement and prayer support.  She mentioned so many areas of need and concern and longs to find ways for the Army to minister through the Community Care outreach program.  We talked about the prisons in Liberia and how the LOM would go weekly to bring rice to feed the prisoners.  In Liberia, prisoners are not fed on a regular basis.  Some places they do not even have water available to bathe or wash their clothes.  Ministry to prisoners – same, but different. 

She mentioned so many young girls on the streets at night and how she longs to be able to get to know them and offer them a way out of the life they are living.  They need Christ.  They need God’s love.  They need a safe place to stay.  They need a chance to break free from the bondage of sin and become what God intended them to be.  I think of safe houses, shelters, and the many programs available through The Salvation Army and connecting with other community resources in the States.  Here, there they are still trying to figure out a safe and helpful way to get to these girls.  So we brainstorm.  What is a vehicle could be made available to drive to and in these areas?  What if they could be offered a sandwich or biscuits as they are told about the love of Go?  What if a nearby corps could offer a time of fellowship and a place to talk once a week?  Ministry to girls on the street – same but different.

There are the elderly, the homes for the mentally disturbed and hospitals to be visited.  They all need to be reminded of God’s love and presence.  And they need rice, towels and wash cloths, soap and other toiletries and blankets.  Same but different.

In our conversation I asked her, if there was one area where she would start, where would that be?  Her response:  the mental home.  So we prayed.   We prayed that God would guide hearts and hands so that organizations and institutions might come together in ways never considered before.  In the USA, we so often have companies donate from their storehouse of supplies; airlines give us blankets, hotels give us toiletries, towels and washcloths, restaurants, supermarkets and bakeries donate food.  I wonder if that could begin to happen here. 

Same but different.

 "For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16

“Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God—“ John 1:12

Now, that’s the same everywhere and for everyone.  No difference.

Prayer focus:  Community Care (League of Mercy) ministry in Liberia – that God would provide supplies to carry to those in need and give those who are members of the Community Care program the courage to visit and share the Gospel and love of God.  Even if their hands are empty, their hearts still beat strong for God.  Perhaps that is the first step.  And as the first step is taken, let’s see what God provides.  Hallelujah!

Command Band

The band is doing so well.  Their playing and performance improves weekly and they add so much to worship.  Julius Fayiah is bring the band along well.  And the beginner group is amazing.  Under the leadership of David Oloruntoba and Julius, they are learning well and have been diligent in practicing.

 Vocational and Professional Training Center

Students and staff have been cleaning classrooms and preparing for final exams and the semester draws to a close.  Thank God for those who have been part of getting the Training Center started five or six years ago and for the progress they continue to make in excellence in education.  The financial needs for investors and supporters and special projects is an area where they all continue to pray for the right connections from within Liberia and around the world to sustain this great work.

Prayer Focus:

VPTC - finish semester well and make adjustments for next semeste
 investors/institutions for ongoing sustenance of much-needed trainin
Supplies needed for various departments in order to properly teach and train students

Fellowship at Laurence and Christine Normans with short term missions groups

Blessings to all
Maj Pamm

Christmas, New Years, Command Band and recent Corps visits

Some events of the last couple of weeks:

December 20th - CHQ Christmas celebration
We were able to give the children gifts that were sent on the container from the US and all the girls received a new dress make by friends from Canada.

December 25th - Worship at Sinkor Corps
Sinkor was the first Corps established in the country of Liberia 25 years ago.  It is a small corps in a community so in need of our presence.  I am so grateful that the Army has kept this corps in place and not moved it to any other location.

December 28th -
Breakfast with +Christine Norman,  +Momo Douwee and two friends from America
I finally got to meet Christine!  She has two friends from the US who come each year to do 10 days of retreat/training with orphan girls.  We had a delightful meal and fellowship.

Frederick and Dorty's wedding
Frederick is one of young men who played in the band and has been part of the Army since its early days.  They are a beautiful Christian couple and I know God will bless their lives in the days and years ahead and so many others will be blessed by their influence in family, church and the country of Liberia.

December 29th - Visit to Kakata Corps and visit with Willemina Walker
Captains +Edwin and Beatrice Kpadebah are the Corps Officers here and so involved in corps ministry and community outreach.  They are full of the joy of the Lord!  I am so blessed at seeing the way they care for all that care for all that God has entrusted to them - family, community, property, finances, etc.  Thank you Edwin and Beatrice and may God continue to bless your ministry as you honor Him in all things.

I also had an opportunity to visit with Willemina Walker and her son, Prosper.  Johnathan and Willemina were cadets when I was training principal.  They are not in the Army at the present time, but Willemina's heart is still warmed with the presence of God.  They have 5 growing children.  I pray that God will continue to speak into their lives and guide them in the decisions they make in the days ahead.

December 30th - Farewell Celebration for +Jones Appau
Jones is a teenager from Ghana.  His father is the Training Principal in Liberia and his mother the Home Officer.  He has been in Liberia for one year, but the parents felt it best to send him back to Ghana to go to school so he isn't behind in his schooling when their term is up in Liberia.  The school system is Ghana is much more like it is in the USA where high schoolers can choose their course of study. In Liberia, high schoolers all take all of the same courses.
Jones only recently began playing cornet and learning to read music, but has advanced very quickly.  He practices a lot and has set such a good example and standard for the other members of the band.  We will miss his gentle spirit and presence in the band.

December 31st -
day at the farm in Bentol
Momo and I went to Bentol with Christine and friends.  We visited the farm, saw so much of what is happening there, had a great meeting and sharing of vision among staff and friends, and enjoyed lunch with everyone (rice, pineapple and sweet bread).  All I can say is "WOW".  What God has in store for the people of this country!!  We also went to Christine's new mayoral office where the check book (empty as it is) was passed over to her.  We all joined hands in prayer for Christine and this new undertaking.

Watchnight Service at Sinkor Corps with the Command Band
This was an interesting evening.  When it was time to go to Sinkor with the band, there was no driver to carry the boys and their instruments, so I was given a key to the red pick up truck, which wouldn't start.  Then I got the key to the medical jeep and that worked!  When we got to the corps the place was dark because the generator wouldn't work.  The CO had to quickly rent a generator and eventually we had lights (though very dim).  At the end of the service, the ladies of the corps served tea and bread with peanut butter to everyone. Their gracious serving was such a special way to end 2013 and start 2014.

January 2nd - Josh, theolumber came and worked on water and broken pipe issues at the apartment and install a pressure pump so the water will pump through the pipes into the house.  The pump cost $185 and I still need to get an automatic shut off switch for the pump which will be $130.  :)

January 3rd -
George, the electrician worked on outlets and wiring issues at apartment  (This is all costing me!)
Spent the day with Christine Norman - Bentol farm and visiting villages.  We also had a good visit with Dennis, a pastor who is planting churches in some of the villages we visited.  Christine brought little gifts to share with the children in one of the villages

January 5th - Visit to Menigay Corps with Capt. Samson Kanmoe to see Cadet Josephine and worship with the corps family.  We met people full of joy and give good attention and care to all that God has entrusted them with in this community.

John 16:13 But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come.

Thanks so much for your continued prayers and support.
Pamm